Fears over NHS privatisation are not new, but as the number of contracted services run by private companies increases, The Mirror has looked into what giving birth could set you back if the NHS was no longer around.

One of the most infamous private healthcare systems in the world is in the US where a straightforward, uncomplicated hospital birth can cost £7,000.

Costs can quickly skyrocket however if the mother needs a C-section or there are often unforeseeable complications in the birthing process.

For those who don't have have health insurance in countries without a public health service, medical bills can and often do leave patients bankrupt.